SEOUL NATIONAL UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL

1. Could you briefly introduce yourself and your professional background?

My name is Rodrigo Abón Arrojo, and I am a 5th-year resident in General and Digestive Surgery at the University Hospital Fundación Alcorcón in Madrid

2. How did you first learn about Seoul National University Hospital, and what motivated you to choose SNUH for your fellowship training?

The first time I heard about Seoul National University Hospital was through a colleague and friend of mine from Madrid, who had been rotating for 2 months in the gastric surgery department. She spoke highly of her great experience and how much she had learned during her rotation, and she recommended it to me.

3. What has been the most valuable experience during your fellowship at SNUH—and what are the key things you hope to take away from this training (2–3 points)?

One of the things I appreciated most was the kindness and the teaching spirit towards students and fellows rotating through the gastrointestinal surgery department.

I believe I have learned many new things, although not all of them will be applicable when I return, as the resources and population are different. However, if I had to mention two strengths, they would be the importance of surgical planning, individualizing the technique for each case, and the systematic approach when performing lymphadenectomy.

4. In your view, what distinguishes SNUH from other institutions in terms of clinical training or patient care?

SNUH has provided me with the opportunity not only to observe laparoscopic and robotic gastric surgery in real-time but also to assist the surgeon during the procedure. This has given me a clearer understanding of the next steps in the surgery, thereby helping to better grasp the principles of oncological gastric surgery.

5. How would you describe the mentorship and academic atmosphere here?

I believe there is a strong enthusiasm for teaching and ensuring a deep understanding of the principles of oncological gastric surgery, addressing all doubts and questions that arise during the daily workflow.

6. What is the most important thing you have gained from your time at SNUH (e.g., knowledge, skills, perspective, network)?

I have had the chance to witness firsthand how a high-volume gastric surgery unit operates, the importance of surgical planning, and the significance of knowing each patient's anatomy. Additionally, I have been able to observe the research potential developed within the department, with numerous publications in high-impact journals.

7. What has been the most memorable moment in Korea, either inside or outside the hospital?

The opportunity to experience and live within a society so different from my own has made this rotation a unique and unforgettable experience for me. Sharing various perspectives on surgery and Korean lifestyle has enriched me both as a surgeon and as an individual.

8. Finally, what message would you like to share with future international fellows considering SNUH?

If I were to reconsider where to pursue a fellowship, I would choose SNUH again, as it is a hospital that strives for excellence, with extensive experience in gastric surgery and an unparalleled teaching spirit. Therefore, I can think of no better place than this to undertake an international fellowship.

9. Please feel free to add any other thoughts or experiences you would like to share with our readers:

It has been an incredibly rewarding experience, and I would like to express my gratitude to Professor Hyuk-Joon Lee and the rest of the team for this opportunity. I return home with many ideas that we can implement in my home hospital to improve the quality of patient care and, ultimately, to grow both as surgeons and as people.